Headed into town with friends we were invited to join them at The Ferry Building. As we approached, we stifled an inward groan. From outward appearances, we were expecting another corporate infused feeding trough, where the most exotic thing to be found would be a Pizzera Uno or Boston Market- similar to South Street Seaport in NYC or Fanual Hall in Boston.

Well, we were WRONG! The Ferry Building is a magnificent piece of localvore culture, brimming with excellent shops and eatieries. We over ate, but it was all worth it and one of the excellent excellent stops was Il Cane Rosso.

Il Cane Rosso is a casual, rotisserie and sandwich shop fronted by beautiful antipasti and headed by a rustic menu. Kudos to Chefs Lauren Kiino and Daniel Patterson- who have created the perfect “mall” restaurant. Quick and homey, and very reasonably priced- would all food court restaurants achieve such an admirable combination.

Funny thing – here in NYC there are hundreds of great restaurants, but none that cater to the masses (expect maybe Le Pain Quotidian chain). This excellent eatery, Il Cane Rosso, and the entire ferry building is a testament to the food culture that pervades the city of San Francisco.

If I was a commuter, taking a ferry in and across the bay daily, Il Cane Rosso would be one of the places I walked by each trip to check the days menu! Their website and twitter account also broadcast the days menu and specials.

Once again – this Ferry Building is where the city of San Francisco really catches my interest. Perhaps it is the access to the best ingredients in the world, or the general expectations of the populace or maybe it is some excellent city planning? This really is a foodies’ town.

MARIQUITA FARM EARLY GIRL TOMATO PANZANELLA
These were some of the best tomatoes we’ve ever had; served with cucumbers,
red onion, arugula and red wine vinaigrette to create a really really tasty salad.